Sept. 13, 2019
Preventing Vaping Among Teens
The use of vaping devices has quickly become a national health crisis, having increased over 300% in Indiana since 2012.
New reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention link vaping to more than 200 cases of respiratory illnesses nationwide, including at least 24 in Indiana.
Recently, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) confirmed the state’s first death that is linked to vaping.
To address these alarming statistics, Indiana is launching a three-pronged strategy to reduce vaping among Hoosier youth.
The ISDH plans to increase awareness of the risks associated with e-cigarettes through an educational toolkit for schools, parents and students. Along with this, the ISDH will also launch a youth-focused text-to-quit program and a statewide public awareness campaign focusing on both the prevention and cessation of vaping.
I am alarmed by the growing number of Hoosiers who vape, especially our teens, and I hope these efforts will play a part in overcoming this public health concern.
Click here for more information on Indiana’s efforts on tobacco prevention and cessation.
National Recovery Month
This month marks the 30th anniversary of National Recovery Month, a time designated to create awareness of mental and substance use disorders as well as celebrate those who’ve recovered from addiction.
This year’s theme is “Join the Voices for Recovery: Together We Are Stronger.”
For several years, the General Assembly has passed measures to combat drug abuse and provide accessible treatment options for those struggling with addiction.
For example, we have passed laws requiring controlled substance prescribers to participate in ongoing opioid education every two years and created a grant program to establish comprehensive addiction recovery centers throughout the state.
To learn more about the state’s recovery resources, visit in.gov/recovery.
To learn more about National Recovery Month, click here.
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